What is a peak flow meter?

Peak flow meter is a device which reflects upon the state of the airways. Many of them have a red & a green zone marked on them. Once you know your average reading, any dip in the readings of the meter should indicate an impending attack.

How to use the peak flow meter?

• Bring the marker down on zero.
• Stand. In this position take a deep breath. Keep the meter in your hand. Keep the fingers away from the markings.
• Place your lips around the mouthpiece & blow hard.
• The marker will be pushed up. See the marking.
• Record it in the asthma diary.
• Repeat the procedure thrice. Keep the best reading.

What are the three zones & what is their significance ?
The green zone represents your personal best. This reading would be the one when you are symptom free & generally in the evening after bronchodilator treatment. As long as your readings are in this range, you need not worry ; & when so for a long duration, talk to your physician regarding reduction of the doses.
Yellow zone is the caution zone. It indicates 50-80% of your personal best. you may need to increase the medications/ doses & when in this range persistently, you may have to talk to your physician.
Red zone is the danger zone. It indicates 50% of your personal best. In that case, use your inhalers immediately. If the next readings do not fall in the yellow zone & remain there,contact your physician immediately.

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